The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with ax4s automatic transaxles. The low/intermediate servo cover can separate from the transaxle while the vehicle is being driven. If this occurs, transmission fluid will leak contacting the catalytic converter.
The risk
The catalytic converter temperature May be hot enough to ignite the transmission fluid and cause a vehicle fire.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the transmission and replace these servo covers.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-097 (97V097000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 97S75 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission |
| Report date | June 9, 1997 |
| Owners notified | June 30, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 100,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-097 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the transmission and replace these servo covers.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 100,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.